Beyond the familiar cities of Berlin and Munich, Germany unveils a treasure trove of summer destinations that cater to the discerning traveller. From crystal-clear alpine lakes to dramatic sandstone formations, these Germany summer destinations offer the perfect blend of luxury, adventure and cultural immersion.
Alpine escapes in Bavaria
Among the finest Germany summer destinations, Bavaria’s breathtaking landscape transforms into a paradise when warmer temperatures arrive, offering a refreshing alternative to typical beach holidays.
Eibsee: Bavaria’s emerald jewel
Often called the “German Caribbean,” Eibsee sits at the foot of Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze. This privately-owned alpine lake boasts crystal-clear emerald waters that reach a pleasant 20-22°C in summer. The east side offers beautiful wild beaches with stunning views of the Zugspitze panorama. For those seeking a more active experience, rent paddle boards or boats to explore the lake’s eight picturesque islands at your own pace.
The 7.4-km circular trail provides constantly changing perspectives of the water and surrounding mountains without requiring advanced hiking skills. While overnight camping directly at Eibsee isn’t permitted, nearby Grainau and Garmisch-Partenkirchen offer excellent accommodation options from the luxurious Romantik Alpenhotel Waxenstein to the more casual Camping Erlebnis Zugspitze.
Berchtesgaden: Alpine grandeur with historical depth
Nestled near the Austrian border, Berchtesgaden combines natural splendour with cultural significance. The crystal-clear Königssee, often regarded as Germany’s most beautiful alpine lake, lies surrounded by steep rock faces in Berchtesgaden National Park – the country’s only alpine UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Take a silent electric boat across the pristine waters to visit the iconic St. Bartholomew’s Church, whose red onion domes against the mountainous backdrop create one of Germany’s most photographed scenes. Hikers will appreciate the special “hikers’ bus” providing convenient access to various trails through verdant forests and peaceful pastures. For those interested in history, the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) sits perched atop a mountain peak, accessible by panoramic bus and lift. Once Hitler’s mountain retreat, it now offers breathtaking views across the Alps and serves as a restaurant rather than a memorial.
Mittenwald: Bavaria’s violin-making village
Tucked between the Karwendel mountains and Kranzberg hills, Mittenwald delivers a perfect blend of cultural charm and outdoor adventure. This historic town on the old Roman trade route between Venice and Augsburg is famous for its tradition of violin making, introduced in the 17th century by Mathias Klotz. The pedestrianised centre comes alive in summer with its celebrated “Lüftlmalerei” – elaborate painted facades depicting religious scenes and local folklore.
The Geigenbaumuseum (Violin Making Museum) offers fascinating insights into the craft that made this town famous. Active travellers can explore the easily accessible Leutaschklamm gorge or take the Karwendelbahn cable car for panoramic views and hiking trails. The beautiful mountain lakes of Ferchensee and Lautersee provide perfect spots for a refreshing swim after a day of exploration.
Fairytale castles and historic towns
When exploring Germany summer destinations, the country’s architectural heritage becomes even more enchanting under the summer sun.
Neuschwanstein Castle: Living fairytale
While interior visits require guided tours, the exterior views of Neuschwanstein Castle are what truly capture the imagination. Built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II, this iconic structure inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and stands as the epitome of Romantic architecture.
Summer offers the perfect lighting for photographs, with the castle’s white limestone walls and towers set against lush green forests and the Bavarian Alps. For the most spectacular viewpoint, head to Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge), suspended over a waterfall with unparalleled views of the castle’s full façade.
Görlitz: “Görliwood” – Germany’s preserved architectural gem
Often overlooked among Germany summer destinations, Görlitz stands as the country’s most extensively preserved architectural ensemble with over 3,000 listed buildings spanning from Gothic to Art Nouveau. Located on the Polish border, its remarkable state of conservation – having survived WWII virtually unscathed – has made it a Hollywood favourite, featuring in films like “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” earning it the nickname “Görliwood.”
Summer is the perfect time to wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and discover architectural treasures like the Schwibbogen House, a nearly 500-year-old building now converted into a boutique hotel with a breakfast room adorned with vibrant 16th-century murals. Don’t miss the “whisper portal” in the town hall, an acoustic marvel where you can hear someone whispering from across the room due to the unique architecture.
Natural wonders beyond the ordinary
The most distinctive Germany summer destinations showcase the country’s diverse landscapes, offering truly unique experiences for the adventurous traveller.
Saxon Switzerland: Germany’s rocky wonderland
South of Dresden lies Saxon Switzerland National Park, a spectacularly different side of Germany where dramatic sandstone formations create an otherworldly landscape. This unique region features table mountains, elevated plateaus, towering rock needles and deep gorges alongside the valley of the River Elbe.
The iconic Bastei Bridge, an arched structure perched over 600 feet above the Elbe River, offers one of Germany’s most dramatic vistas. With over 1,200 km of marked hiking trails, including the famous Malerweg (Painters’ Way) that inspired Romantic artists, the park provides endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Summer brings mild temperatures perfect for exploring this landscape of bizarre rock formations and lush forests. The region’s unique microclimate supports rare plant and animal species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Rakotzbrücke: The perfect circle bridge
In Kromlau Park, Saxony, stands one of Germany’s most photographed structures – the Rakotzbrücke. Built in the 1860s, the parabolic bridge is perfectly designed to create a full circle when reflected in the waters below, earning its name from the belief that such a seemingly impossible structure.
Early morning summer visits offer the best chance to capture the mirror-perfect reflection when the water is still. Surrounded by rhododendrons and azaleas, the bridge sits within Kromlau Park, an expansive 200-acre landscape garden worth exploring at a leisurely pace.
From alpine serenity to fairytale castles and dramatic sandstone landscapes, Germany summer destinations offer something for every discerning traveller seeking experiences beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re hiking through national parks, exploring historic towns, or simply relaxing by crystal-clear lakes, these enchanting locations promise memorable summer getaways with that perfect blend of luxury, culture and natural beauty.
